# LXV: “I Hate Her!” explained — Phineas Redux

> Chapter companion for Phineas Redux by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Lady Laura Kennedy, now a widow, is consumed by jealousy and hatred of Madame Goesler, who has successfully found evidence (the key) that helped secure Phineas Finn's acquittal. Laura reflects on her own sacrifices and constancy for Phineas, feeling that her efforts are overshadowed by the foreign woman's triumph. She confides in Lady Chiltern, expressing her bitterness and fear that Phineas will marry Madame Goesler, whom she considers an unworthy rival.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

Lady Laura's unrequited love and sacrifices for Phineas contrast with Madame Goesler's successful efforts.

### Jealousy and Rivalry

Laura's intense hatred of Madame Goesler stems from jealousy over Phineas's affection and the glory of his deliverance.

### Gender Roles and Women's Agency

Laura's inability to act publicly contrasts with Madame Goesler's active, successful intervention.

### Scandal and Public Opinion

Laura's reputation and social standing are affected by her past and her feelings for Phineas.

## Character check-ins

### Lady Laura Kennedy

Widowed and consumed by jealousy, she hates Madame Goesler for securing Phineas's deliverance and fears losing him to her rival.

### Phineas Finn

The object of Lady Laura's devotion; his acquittal and potential marriage to Madame Goesler torment her.

### Madame Max Goesler

The successful rival who traveled to Prague and found the key evidence, earning glory for Phineas's deliverance.

### Lady Chiltern

Laura's sister-in-law, who tries to console her and defends Madame Goesler, but is rebuffed.

### Duchess of Omnium

Mentioned as being active in supporting Phineas during his ordeal.

### Lord Chiltern

Laura's brother, who candidly tells her she is disgracing herself.

### Lord Cantrip

Mentioned as being eager on Phineas's behalf.

### Lady Cantrip

Mentioned as being eager on Phineas's behalf.

## Key lines

> Lady Laura Kennedy had been allowed to take no active part in the manifestations of friendship which at this time were made on behalf of Phineas Finn.

Laura was unable to publicly show her support for Phineas during his trial.

_Highlights Laura's frustration at being sidelined._

> I hate her, and that is sufficient.

Laura declares her hatred for Madame Goesler without further explanation.

_Captures the chapter's central emotion._

> She had made a great effort to carry out that intention, but the effort had been futile.

Laura tried to maintain pure friendship with Phineas but failed.

_Reflects her internal conflict and failed resolve._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/phineas_redux_se/chapters/lxv-i-hate-her
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/phineas_redux_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/phineas_redux_se/chapters